Saturday 14 September 2024

Seabird Saturday Spotlight



There's something magical about spending time with Puffins on the cliffs of Hermaness, Unst in Shetland. These charismatic seabirds are a joy to watch as they hop along the grassy cliff edges, their colourful beaks glowing in the summer sun. 

Although they've now set off for their oceanic wintering grounds, looking back at photos from the season brings a wave of nostalgia. The Puffin’s distinctive look and endearing behaviour make them a favourite among birdwatchers and photographers alike. 

This summer, I was lucky enough to capture a moment of a Puffin perched majestically on the cliff, reminding me why I love spending time with these incredible creatures. Can't wait for their return next year!

Monday 9 September 2024

Capturing Sanderlings on Shetland’s Sandy Shores




This July, I had the incredible opportunity to photograph Sanderlings on the beautiful, wet, sandy beaches of Shetland. These small, quick-moving waders are known for their energetic behaviour along the shoreline, constantly darting back and forth in search of food. Getting down to their level was a challenge, but it was all worth it to capture these unique moments.

Photographing Sanderlings requires patience and a willingness to get a bit wet and sandy. By laying on the beach, I was able to get a low-angle perspective that truly brings out the beauty and detail of these birds. The experience reminded me that wildlife photography is as much about the adventure and connection with nature as it is about the final image.

Shetland's beaches are a haven for birdwatchers and photographers alike, offering stunning opportunities to observe a variety of seabirds in their natural habitat. These Sanderling photos are a testament to the rewards of embracing the elements and immersing yourself in the environment to capture the perfect shot.

Saturday 7 September 2024

Up Close with Guillemots off Noss, Shetland


During my recent trip to Shetland, I had the chance to photograph Guillemots up close while on a Seabirds and Seals boat tour off the coast of Noss. Watching these birds in flight is truly fascinating—they don’t glide through the air like most seabirds but instead flap their wings rapidly, looking almost as though they're working extra hard to stay airborne.

Despite their awkwardness in flight, Guillemots are incredibly agile and powerful swimmers, perfectly adapted to life on the water. Capturing them on camera was both a challenge and a thrill, as they zipped by against the bright blue summer sky.

Experiences like this remind me of the unique beauty of Shetland's wildlife. The sheer number of seabirds and the rugged landscapes make it a paradise for birdwatchers and photographers alike. I'm already looking forward to my next adventure out on the water!

Tuesday 3 September 2024

Local Ferruginous Duck

 



A stunning find by Josh Jones; this drake Ferruginous Duck looked great in the evening light. My fourth new bird locally this year!

Osprey at the River Spey



During my summer visit to the mouth of the River Spey in late July, I had the incredible opportunity to photograph an Osprey in action. 

This location is famous for its Osprey sightings, and it certainly lived up to its reputation! The moment this majestic bird appeared with a small fish in its talons, I knew it was going to be a special experience. 

Despite the challenges of the midday haze, the Osprey's graceful flight and powerful presence were captivating. Watching it soar overhead and then dive back down to fish again was a thrilling reminder of nature’s beauty and the remarkable skills of these raptors. The River Spey truly offers an unforgettable wildlife experience, perfect for any birding enthusiast!

Sunday 1 September 2024

Discovering Juvenile Robins in Their Unique Plumage

 

Juvenile Robins can be quite a surprise to new birdwatchers. Unlike the familiar red-breasted adults, young Robins have a distinctive speckled brown plumage that helps them blend into their surroundings, offering a clever camouflage against predators. This striking difference often leads people to mistake them for an entirely different species!

I recently photographed this confiding juvenile Robin perched on a mossy stone wall. Its quiet demeanour and unique plumage made for a captivating image, showcasing the bird in its natural habitat. Moments like these remind us of the unexpected beauty in the stages of a bird's life.

If you're a fan of bird photography or just love discovering the diverse wildlife of the British countryside, keep an eye out for these young Robins—they’re a delightful part of nature's tapestry.

Stay tuned for more wildlife photography and insights into the wonders of British nature!